Fitness Bar

ABSTRACT

A weight attachment mechanism for a barbell; the attachment mechanism may include: a base including a receiving end and a mounting end; a fixed arm; an opening arm; and a sheath having an inner surface and an outer surface. The fixed arm and the opening arm may be configured to be mounted to the mounting end of the base. The opening arm may be movable relative to the fixed arm in order to receive a weight between the fixed arm and the opening arm. The inner surface of the sheath may be configured to fittingly engage at least a portion of the base. The receiving end of the base may be configured to attach to an end of the barbell.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

This disclosure relates generally to an attachment for a fitness bar and, more particularly, an attachment assembly that can attach to a fitness bar or barbell at one end and hold a weight at the other to allow a user to perform a variety of weighted exercises with limited or minimal equipment.

Description of Related Art

Typical barbells for strength training consist of an elongated bar, designed to be gripped by a user, and two elongated ends, designed to slide weight thereon. The elongated ends are smooth compared to the bar to facilitate the sliding of various sized weights onto and off of the ends. This configuration allows a user to perform numerous exercises for numerous muscle groups. However, the ability to perform these exercises at the desired resistance is often limited by the weights. The weights used on a standard barbell are typically plated with a hole in the center, so that they can slide onto the ends of a barbell. While barbells can be affordable, the plated weights can be expensive and often only come in sizes of 5, 10, 25, and 45 pounds, limiting the ability of a user to exercise at varying levels of resistance.

There is a need for another way to exercise with barbells, to make use of Olympic and other exercises that can only be performed with the barbell. Having a mechanism that will attach non-plated weights onto one or both ends of a barbell could reduce the amount of equipment needed to work out with a barbell.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a weight attachment mechanism for a barbell may include a base including a receiving end and a mounting end, a fixed arm, an opening arm, and a sheath having an inner surface and an outer surface. The fixed arm and the opening arm may be configured to be mounted to the mounting end of the base, the opening may be movable relative to the fixed arm in order to receive a weight between the fixed arm and the opening arm, the inner surface of the sheath may be configured to fittingly engage at least a portion of the base, and the receiving end of the base may be configured to attach to an end of the barbell.

According to another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the fixed arm and the opening arm may each include a body portion and a mounting portion extending from the body portion in the direction of the base, the body portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm may define a first space configured to receive the weight therein, and the mounting portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm may be configured to be mounted to the mounting end of the base. The mounting end may include a first tab and a second tab defining a second space therebetween, and the second space may be configured to receive the mounting portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm therein. The first tab and the second tab may each have a pair of apertures, and the pair of apertures on the first tab may correspond with the pair of apertures on the second tab. The mounting portions of the opening arm and the fixed arm may each include an aperture, each aperture aligning with one of the apertures of both the first and second tabs.

According to another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, pins may extend through each of the aligned apertures, fastening the opening arm and the fixed arm to the mounting end of the base. An outer surface of the mounting portion of the opening arm may be rounded so as to permit the rotation of the opening arm relative to the fixed arm. The mounting portion of the opening arm may extend a first length from the body portion of the opening arm and the mounting portion of the fixed arm may extend a second length from the body portion of the fixed arm, wherein the second length is longer than the first length. The mounting end of the base may include a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the mounting portion of the fixed arm therein. The base may further include a threaded portion between the receiving end and the mounting end. At least a portion of the inner surface of the sheath may be threaded, corresponding to the first threaded portion of the base. The weight may be a dumbbell. The weight may be a fitness ball.

According to another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a weightlifting assembly may include a first bar having a first end and a second end and a second bar having a first end and a second end, and at least one weight attachment mechanism which may include an attachment portion having a connecting end, a weighted end, and a locking sheath. The connecting end of the attachment portion may be configured to be mounted to the first end of the first bar or the second bar. The weighted end may be configured to receive a weight therein. The locking sheath may be configured to lock the weight within at least a portion of the weighted end. The second end of the first bar and the second end of the second bar may be configured to be attached to one another.

According to another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, the weighted end may include a fixed arm and an opening arm movable relative to the fixed arm in order to receive the weight therebetween. The locking sheath may be configured to be rotatably mounted to the attachment portion so as to cover at least a portion of the fixed arm and the opening arm so as to prevent the opening arm from moving. The at least one weight attachment mechanism may further include a pair of locking pins configured to be received through at least a pair of corresponding apertures located on the attachment portion and the fixed arm and the opening arm. A surface of the opening arm may be rounded so as to permit the opening arm to rotate relative to the fixed arm. The weight may be a dumbbell. The weight may be a fitness ball.

The present disclosure may be further defined by the following clauses:

Clause 1. A weight attachment mechanism for a barbell, the attachment mechanism comprising: a base comprising a receiving end and a mounting end; a fixed arm; an opening arm; and a sheath having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the fixed arm and the opening arm are configured to be mounted to the mounting end of the base, wherein the opening arm is movable relative to the fixed arm in order to receive a weight between the fixed arm and the opening arm, wherein the inner surface of the sheath is configured to fittingly engage at least a portion of the base, and wherein the receiving end of the base is configured to attach to an end of the barbell.

Clause 2. The weight attachment of clause 1, wherein the fixed arm and the opening arm each comprise a body portion and a mounting portion extending from the body portion in the direction of the base, wherein the body portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm define a first space configured to receive the weight therein, and wherein the mounting portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm are configured to be mounted to the mounting end of the base.

Clause 3. The weight attachment mechanism of clause 1 or 2, wherein the mounting end comprises a first tab and a second tab defining a second space therebetween, and wherein the second space is configured to receive the mounting portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm therein.

Clause 4. The weight attachment mechanism of any of clauses 1-3, wherein the first tab and the second tab each have a pair of apertures, the pair of apertures on the first tab corresponding with the pair of apertures on the second tab.

Clause 5. The weight attachment mechanism of any of clauses 1-4, wherein the mounting portions of the opening arm and the fixed arm each comprise an aperture, each aperture aligning with one of the apertures of both the first and second tabs.

Clause 6. The weight attachment mechanism of any of clauses 1-5, wherein pins extend through each of the aligned apertures, fastening the opening arm and the fixed arm to the mounting end of the base.

Clause 7. The weight attachment mechanism of any of clauses 1-6, wherein an outer surface of the mounting portion of the opening arm is rounded so as to permit the rotation of the opening arm relative to the fixed arm.

Clause 8. The weight attachment mechanism of any of clauses 1-7, wherein the mounting portion of the opening arm extends a first length from the body portion of the opening arm and the mounting portion of the fixed arm extends a second length from the body portion of the fixed arm, and wherein the second length is longer than the first length.

Clause 9. The weight attachment mechanism of any of clauses 1-8, wherein the mounting end of the base comprises a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the mounting portion of the fixed arm therein.

Clause 10. The weight attachment mechanism of any of clauses 1-9, wherein the base further comprises a threaded portion between the receiving end and the mounting end.

Clause 11. The weight attachment mechanism of any of clauses 1-10, wherein at least a portion of the inner surface of the sheath is threaded, corresponding to the first threaded portion of the base.

Clause 12. The weight attachment mechanism of any of clauses 1-11, wherein the weight is a dumbbell.

Clause 13. The weight attachment mechanism of any of clauses 1-12, wherein the weight is a fitness ball.

Clause 14. A weight lifting assembly of any of clauses 1-13, comprising: a first bar having a first end and a second end and a second bar having a first end and a second end; and at least one weight attachment mechanism comprising: an attachment portion having a connecting end and a weighted end; and a locking sheath, wherein the connecting end of the attachment portion is configured to be mounted to the first end of the first bar or the first end of the second bar, wherein the weighted end is configured to receive a weight therein, wherein the locking sheath is configured to lock the weight within at least a portion of the weighted end, and wherein the second end of the first bar and the second end of the second bar are configured to be attached to one another.

Clause 15. The weightlifting assembly of clause 14, wherein the weighted end comprises a fixed arm and an opening arm movable relative to the fixed arm in order to receive the weight therebetween.

Clause 16. The weightlifting assembly of clause 14 or 15, wherein the locking sheath is configured to be rotatably mounted to the attachment portion so as to cover at least a portion of the fixed arm and the opening arm so as to prevent the opening arm from moving.

Clause 17. The weightlifting assembly of any of clauses 14-16, wherein the at least one weight attachment mechanism further comprises a pair of locking pins configured to be received through at least a pair of corresponding apertures located on the attachment portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm.

Clause 18. The weightlifting assembly of any of clauses 14-17, wherein a surface of the opening arm is rounded so as to permit the opening arm to rotate relative to the fixed arm.

Clause 19. The weightlifting assembly of-any of clauses 14-18, wherein the weight is a dumbbell.

Clause 20. The weight lifting assembly of any of clauses 14-19, wherein the weight is a fitness ball.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a weight attachment mechanism attached to an end of a barbell;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a base member of the weight attachment mechanism of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an end view of the base member of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a partially transparent end view of the base member of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the base member of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fixed arm of the attachment mechanism of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an opening arm of the attachment mechanism of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 a perspective view of an assembled base member, fixed arm, and opening arm;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a sheath of the attachment mechanism of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the weight attachment mechanism of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the weight attachment mechanism of FIG. 1;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of the weight attachment mechanism gripping a dumbbell;

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a barbell having two weight attachment mechanisms, one connected at each end, each weight attachment mechanism gripping a dumbbell;

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a the weight attachment mechanism gripping a dumbbell;

FIG. 13B is a perspective view of a barbell having two weight attachment mechanisms, one connected at each end, each weight attachment mechanism gripping a fitness ball; and

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a detachable barbell with one weight attachment mechanism at each end gripping a dumbbell.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “right”, “left”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “top”, “bottom”, “lateral”, “longitudinal”, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as it is oriented in the figures. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume alternative variations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary aspects of the disclosure. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the aspects disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

The present disclosure is directed, in general, to a weight lifting assembly and, more particularly, to a weight attachment mechanism that allows a user to connect different types of weights to a barbell. Certain aspects of the components of each are illustrated in FIGS. 1-14.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 10-14, an attachment mechanism 10 according to the present disclosure is shown. The attachment mechanism 10 includes a base member 12, a fixed arm 14, an opening arm 16, and a sheath 18. The components of the attachment mechanism 10 work to connect a weight 112, 114 (shown in FIGS. 12A-14) to the end of a barbell 8 or another bar used to conduct weighted exercises. The base member 12 serves to connect the attachment mechanism 10 to an end of the barbell 8. The fixed arm 14 and the opening arm 16 cooperate to hold the weight 112, 114 in a space defined between the arms 14, 16. The sheath 18 serves to lock the opening arm 16 relative to the base member 12 and the fixed arm 14, ensuring that the weight held between the arms 14, 16 is not displaced. The sheath 18 also protects the components of the base member 12, discussed below, from being damaged when the attachment mechanism 10 is used with the barbell 8. The components of the attachment mechanism 10 can be made of the same materials that make up a standard barbell, such as metal or, more specifically, iron, steel, aluminum, or various alloys. In instances where a rubber or a composite barbell 8 is used, the components of the attachment mechanism 10 can again be metallic, or the components can have the same rubber or composite composition as the barbell 8. A more detailed discussion of the attachment mechanism 10 will now be provided.

With reference to FIGS. 2-5, the base member 12 is shown. The base member 12 includes a receiving end 20, configured to receive the barbell 8 therein, and a mounting end 36, configured to connect the fixed arm 14 and the opening arm 16 to the base member 12. A threaded portion 37 may be located between the receiving end 20 and the mounting end 36 in order to better facilitate the connection of the base member 12 to the sheath, 18 which will be discussed in more detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the receiving end 20 of the base member 12 includes a hole 22 designed to fit the barbell 8 within the receiving end 20. The hole 22 generally takes the form of a cylindrical hollow shaft that is complimentary to the shape of the barbell 8. Non-cylindrical shapes may also be utilized to mate to non-cylindrical barbells. In order to receive the barbell 8, the diameter of the hole 22 may be slightly greater than or equal to the diameter of the barbell 8. The hole 22 has an inner surface 24 which contacts the barbell 8 when it enters the hole 22. As shown, the hole 22 and inner surface 24 engage closely with the barbell 8 so that no space, or a minimal amount of space, exists between the inner surface 24 and the barbell 8. In the aspect shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the receiving end 20 includes one or more apertures 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D. Each aperture 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D receives a corresponding pin 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D that is screwed or pressed into the apertures 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D in order to further engage the barbell 8 with the receiving end 20. The pins 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D lock the barbell 8 within the hole 22 of the receiving end 20 of the base member 12.

After the barbell 8 is slid into and received within the hole 22, the pins 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D can then be screwed or placed into their corresponding apertures 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D thereby locking the barbell 8 within the hole 22. When the pins 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D are to be screwed into their respective aperture 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, each may have a correspondingly engaging threaded portion. The pins 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D are screwed into the apertures 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D until an end of the pin contacts the barbell 8. The holding force provided by the pins 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D and minimal clearance between the inner surface 24 of the hole 22 and the barbell 8 serve to keep the barbell 8 in place within the receiving end 20. In instances where the pins 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D are to be screwed into the apertures 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D, a tool, such as a screwdriver, may be used, or a user may perform the screwing manually. The pins 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D may also be frictionally fit within the apertures 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D. In either instance, it is contemplated that the end of the barbell 8 may have corresponding apertures (not shown) or indentations (not shown) that are configured to align with the apertures 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D in order to help increase the holding forces on the barbell 8.

As shown in FIG. 2, pairs of apertures 26A, 26C; 26B, 26D may align with one another at opposing points about the receiving end 20. When the barbell 8 is engaged within the hole 22, the first pair of apertures 26A, 26C is located at a first position relative to the barbell 8 and the second pair of apertures 26B, 26D is located at a second position relative to the barbell 8. The first and second positions are located at different points along the length of the barbell 8 so that the pins 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D can apply a stronger holding force to the barbell 8 than if each aperture 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D and corresponding pin 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D were to be located at the same point along the length of the barbell 8. It is contemplated that a different number of apertures and pins may be used to secure the barbell 8 within the hole 22 of the receiving end 20. The apertures may also be located at varying points about the receiving end 20 so long as the barbell 8 is secured within the hole 22.

In other aspects, the barbell 8 may be maintained within the hole 22 by way of a friction or interference fit. In this configuration, the inner surface 24 of the hole 22 of the receiving end 20 directly and tightly contacts the barbell 8, so that the base member 12 maintains its connection with the barbell 8 during use. In this instance, the forces applied to the attachment mechanism 10 and barbell 8 during use are less than the frictional forces keeping the barbell 8 within the hole 22. Only when enough force is applied to the mounting end 36 of the base member 12 in a direction away from the barbell 8 can the frictional forces be overcome, causing the barbell 8 to be released from the hole. It is contemplated that in yet other aspects, the inner surface 24 may be threaded (not shown) to receive a correspondingly threaded barbell 8 end inside of it. In yet other aspects, there may be flexible protrusions (not shown) that extend from the inner surface 24 to engage the end of the barbell 8. In this configuration, the barbell 8 would be pressed within the hole 22, pushing the flexible protrusions toward the inner surface 24. As the barbell 8 slides within the hole 22, the flexible protrusions apply a force against the barbell 8 to retain the barbell 8 within the hole 22 during use. Other methods of retaining the barbell 8 within the hole 22 of the receiving end 20 known to those having skill in the art may also be used and are understood to be within the scope of the present disclosure. In some aspects, the attachment mechanism 10 may be permanently attached to the barbell 8 by an adhesive, a weld, or the like.

As shown in FIGS. 2, 4, and 5, the mounting end 36 of the base member 12 includes a first tab 38 and a second tab 40. The first tab 38 and the second tab 40 define a space 42 therebetween. The space 42 is designed to fit and engage portions of the fixed arm 14 and the opening arm 16 therein, the specific configuration of which will be described below. The first tab 38 includes a pair of first apertures 44A, 44B, and the second tab 40 includes a pair of second apertures 46A, 46B. The first apertures 44A, 44B correspond to and align with the second apertures 46A, 46B so that mounting pins 96A, 96B (shown in FIGS. 4-8 and 11) can be received between the pairs of apertures in order to lock the fixed arm 14 and the opening arm 16 to the mounting end 36. The mounting pins 96A, 96B are shown in FIG. 4 without the fixed arm 16 and opening arm 16 to illustrate how the pins 96A, 96B interact with the mounting end 36. As shown, the first tab 38 and the second tab 40 may take the shape of an isosceles trapezoid. However, the first tab 38 and the second tab 40 may take a variety of shapes. It is contemplated that the first tab 38 and the second tab 40 may take any shape that permits the alignment of the first apertures 44A, 44B and the second apertures 46A, 46B. The shapes of both tabs 38, 40 need not be the same.

Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, the mounting end 36 also includes a hole 48 on one half. The hole 48 extends inwardly from the mounting end 36 and toward the receiving end 20. The hole 48 is designed to accept a portion of the fixed arm 14 within. The hole 48 ensures that the fixed arm 14 remains locked within the mounting end 36 during operation and use of the attachment mechanism 10. On one side of the hole 48, running perpendicular to both the receiving end 20 and the mounting end 36, is an aperture 49. The aperture 49 is configured to receive a pin 68 therein. In order to further facilitate the fixation of the fixed arm 14 within the mounting end 36, the fixed arm 14 has a corresponding aperture 66 that also receives the pin 68. This is shown in FIG. 6. In other aspects, the pin 68 may be integrally formed with the fixed arm 14.

With reference now to FIG. 6, the fixed arm 14 is shown. The fixed arm 14 includes a body portion 50 and a mounting portion 52 extending from the body portion 50. The body portion 50 takes a generally curved or hooked shape so as to define a space 54 therein. The space 54 is designed to receive the weight 112, 114 in coordination with the opening arm 16, as will be discussed below. A surface 56 of the space 54 is shaped so as to properly engage the weight to be received. The surface 56 can be rounded, taking a C-shape, or more rigid, creating the generally hooked or polygonal shape. In more rigid or polygonal configurations, the surface 56 can have multiple straight edges that engage with and help grip the weight 112, 114 and prevent rotation of the weight 112, 114 during use. Other shapes of surface 56 are contemplated so long as they are configured to hold the weight 112, 114 between the fixed arm 14 and the opening arm 16 during operation of the attachment mechanism. The surface 56 can also have a rubber coating or a rubber cap (not shown) to protect the fixed arm 14 from damage and wear when used on a weight 112, 114. The body portion 50 also has an edge 58. The edge 58 is on an opposing side of the space 54 and generally takes a 45-degree angle relative to sidewalls of the fixed arm 14. The edge 58 corresponds with an edge 88 on the opening arm 16 (as shown in FIG. 7).

With continued reference to FIG. 6, the mounting portion 52 extends from the body portion 50 in the direction of the base member 12. Specifically, the mounting portion 52 is to be received within the space 42 of the mounting end 36 of the base member 12. The mounting portion 52 of the fixed arm 14 includes a first mounting part 60 extending directly from the body portion 50 and a second mounting part 64 extending from the first mounting part 60. In total, the mounting portion 52 extends a length L1 from the body portion 50 in a direction toward the mounting end 36 of the base member 12. An aperture 62A extends through the first mounting part 60 in order to receive the mounting pin 96A therethrough. The aperture 62A aligns with one of the first apertures 44A and one of the second apertures 46A, respectively located on the first tab 38 and the second tab 40. The mounting pin 96A extends through each aperture 44A, 62A, 46A and connects the fixed arm 14 to the mounting end 36 of the base 12. While shown and described as a pin, the mounting pin 96A may be threaded, and apertures 44A, 62A, 46A may be correspondingly threaded to engage with the mounting pin 96A. In these instances, a user of the attachment mechanism 10 may screw the mounting pin 96A into the apertures 44A, 62A, 46A by hand or with a tool to insert and remove the mounting pin 96A during assembly and disassembly of the attachment mechanism 10. It is further contemplated that the mounting pin 96A may also be frictionally fit through each aperture 44A, 62A, 46A. Other connection methods known to those having ordinary skill in the art may also be used to connect the fixed arm 16 to the mounting end 36.

Referring back to FIG. 4 and with continued reference to FIG. 6, the second mounting part 64 of the mounting portion 52 of the fixed arm 14 is to be received within the hole 48 of the mounting end 36 of the base member 12. The hole 48 helps to lock the second mounting part 64 within the mounting end 36. Specifically, a surface of the second mounting part 64 contacts the base member 12 within the hole 48. This contact prevents the fixed arm 14 from moving and/or rotating within the mounting end 36. In order to fit within the hole 48, the second mounting part 64 can be more narrow than the first mounting part 60. The second mounting part 64 also includes the aperture 66 which extends in a direction parallel to the aperture 62A. The aperture 66 aligns with aperture 49 within the mounting end 36 so that pin 68 provides an additional connection between the base member 12 and the fixed arm 14. When assembling the fixed arm 14 within the mounting end 36, the pin 68 slides through and engages with both aperture 66 of the fixed arm 14 and aperture 49 of the mounting end 36. Like pin 96A, pin 68 may also be screwed through or frictionally fit within apertures 49, 66 in order to further secure the fixed arm 14 to the mounting end 36 of the base member 12. Other attachment methods known to those having skill in the art can also be used.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the opening arm 16 is shown. The opening arm 16 has features and functionality similar to the fixed arm 14; however, the opening arm 16 is configured to rotate relative to the base member 12. The opening arm 16 includes a body portion 80 and a mounting portion 82 extending from the body portion 80. The body portion 80 takes a generally curved or hooked shape so as to define a space 84 therein. This space is designed to cooperate with space 54 of the fixed arm 14 in order to receive the weight 112, 114 as discussed above in connection with the fixed arm 14. A surface 86 of the space 84 is shaped so as to engage the weight 112, 114 when it is received within the space 84. The surface can be rounded, taking a C-shape, or more rigid, creating the generally hooked or polygonal shaped shown. In polygonal configurations, the surface 86 can have multiple straight edges that engage with and help to grip the weight 112, 114. Other shapes of surface 86 are contemplated so long as they are configured to hold the weight between the fixed arm 14 and the opening arm 16 during operation of the attachment mechanism 10. The surface 86 can also have a rubber coating or a rubber cap (not shown) to protect the opening arm 16 from damage and wear when used on a weight 112, 114. The body portion 80 also has an edge 88. The edge 88 is on an opposing side of the space 84 and generally takes a 45-degree angle relative to sidewalls of the opening arm 16. The edge 88 corresponds with the edge 58 on the fixed arm 14.

The mounting portion 82 extends from the body portion 80 in the direction of the base member 12. Specifically, the mounting portion 82 is to be received within the space 42 of the mounting end 36 of the base member 12. As can be seen from FIGS. 8 and 11, the mounting portion 82 of the opening arm 16 and the mounting portion 52 of the fixed arm 14 may each occupy approximately half of the space 42. The mounting portion 82 extends a length of L2 from the body portion 80 in the direction toward the mounting end 36. Length L2 may be less than length L1 to facilitate the movement of the opening arm 16 during operation of the attachment mechanism 10. The shorter length L2 means the opening arm 16 does not extend as far into the base member 12 as does the second mounting part 64 of the fixed arm 14. This permits the opening arm 16 to move and rotate relative to the fixed arm 14 and the base member 12.

An aperture 92B extends through the mounting portion 82 in order to receive the mounting pin 96B therethrough. The aperture 92B aligns with one of the first apertures 44B and one of the second apertures 46B, respectively located on the first tab 38 and the second tab 40. The mounting pin 96B extends through each aperture 44B, 92B, 46B and connects the opening arm 16 to the mounting end 36 of the base. While shown and described as a pin, the mounting pin 96A may be threaded, and apertures 44B, 92B, 46B may be correspondingly threaded to engage with the mounting pin 96B. In these instances, a user of the attachment mechanism may screw the mounting pin 96B into the apertures 44B, 92B, 46B by hand or with a tool to insert and remove the mounting pin 96B during assembly and disassembly of the attachment mechanism 10. It is further contemplated that the mounting pin 96B may also be frictionally fit through each aperture 44B, 92B, 46B. Other attachment mechanisms known to those having ordinary skill in the art may also be used.

Regardless of how the mounting pin 96B (or another attachment mechanism) connects the mounting portion 82 of the opening arm 16 to the mounting end 36 of the base member 12, the mounting pin 96B must permit the opening arm 16 to rotate when it is connected to the mounting end 36. This is so that, when assembled, the opening arm 16 can rotate or pivot relative to the base member 12 and the fixed arm 14 to allow for enough space to insert a weight within spaces 54, 84. In particular, the opening arm 16 rotates away from the fixed arm 14. To facilitate the rotation of the opening arm 16, the mounting portion 82 has a rounded surface 90. The rounded surface 90 provides clearance to allow the opening arm 16 to rotate relative to the fixed arm 14. In some aspects, the rounded surface 90 may contact and rotate against the first mounting part 60 of the fixed arm 14 during operation.

FIG. 8 shows the base member 12, the fixed arm 14, and the opening arm 16 in the assembled state. The mounting pins 96A, 96B are received through their respective apertures 44A, 62A, 44A, 46B, 92B, 46B, and the opening arm 16 is capable of moving relative to the fixed arm 14 and the base member 12. In some aspects, when not moving, the opening arm 16 may not contact the fixed arm 14. That is, a gap G exists between the arms 14, 16. The space 42 is large enough so that the mounting portions 52, 82 of the fixed arm 14 and the opening arm 16 can be mounted within the space 42 without the fixed arm 14 contacting the opening arm 16. Lack of contact between the opening arm 16 and fixed arm 14 prevents the arms 14, 16 from wearing during use of the attachment mechanism 10. As shown, the gap G between the arms 14, 16 may be constant across the lengths of the fixed arm 14 and opening arm 16, meaning the fixed arm 14 and the opening arm 16 are parallel to each other when mounted. However, the fixed arm 14 and the opening arm 16 may not be aligned parallel to each other and may instead be slightly angled. The fixed arm 14 and opening arm 16 may define an acute angle that opens outwardly toward the edges 58, 88. In some aspects, the angle may be anywhere from 0 to 10 degrees. Despite the angle formed between the arms, 14, 16, the fixed arm 14 and opening arm 16 still do not contact each other within the space 42 unless the opening arm 16 is being rotated relative to the fixed arm 14. When moving the opening arm 16, the edges 58, 88 of both arms 14, 16 may be used to grip and or apply a force to the opening arm 16.

With continued reference to FIG. 8, in operation, the opening arm 16 may be rotated about an axis of the pin 96B relative to the fixed arm 14 in the direction of arrow B. As the opening arm 16 is rotated, the gap G increases to allow the weight 112, 114 (see FIGS. 12A-14) to be inserted through the gap G and positioned between the fixed arm 14 and the opening arm 16 in the cooperating spaces 54, 84. With the weight 112, 114 so positioned, the opening arm 16 may be rotated in the direction of arrow C back to a closed position shown in FIG. 8. In some aspects, the opening arm 16 may be biased in the direction of arrow B or in the direction of arrow C, for example by a spring.

Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 10, the sheath 18 is shown. The sheath 18 is designed to cover portions of the base member 12, the fixed arm 14, and the opening arm 16 in order to prevent movement of the opening arm 16 and to protect the elements of the base member 12 discussed above. The sheath 18 has a generally cylindrical body 100 with an inner surface 102 defining an interior 110. The body 100 extends between a first end 104 and a second end 106. The first end 104 has a diameter D1, and the second end 106 has a diameter D2. The diameter D2 may be larger than the diameter D1, and the cylindrical shape of the body 100 may grow larger as it extends from the first end 104 to the second end 106. Due to these diameters D1, D2, the interior 110 of the body 100 is divided into two parts, 110A, 110B. At the first end 104, a portion of the inner surface 102 is threaded. This threaded portion 108 corresponds to the threaded portion 37 of the base member 12 so that the sheath 18 can be screwed onto the base member 12. The threaded portion 108 extends inwardly from the first end 104, occupying some or all of the first part 110A of the interior 110.

When the sheath 18 is screwed onto the base member 12, as shown in FIG. 10, the mounting end 36, the mounting portions 52, 82 of the arms 14, 16, and at least some of the body portions 50, 80 of the arms 14, 16 are covered by the sheath 18. The diameter D2 of the second end 106 is large enough to envelop these parts of the base member 12, fixed arm 14, and opening arm 16, and the diameter D1 of the first end 104 is small enough so that the threaded portion 108 of the inner surface 102 can engage with the threaded portion 37 on the base member 12. Because the sheath 18 covers the mounting portion 82 and part of the body portion 80 of the opening arm 16, the opening arm 16 is prevented from rotating or moving within the space 42 of the base member, thus locking the opening arm 16 in place. In particular, the opening arm 16 is prevented from rotating in the direction of arrow B, thereby preventing any component (such as a weight 112, 114) held between the fixed arm and the opening arm 16 from becoming dislodged.

FIG. 11 shows an exploded view of the base member 12, the fixed arm 14, the opening arm 16, and the sheath 18, along with their associated pins. With reference to FIGS. 11-14, the application of the attachment mechanism 10 to the barbell 8 will now be described. Here, the fixed arm 14 and opening arm 16 have already been mounted to the base member 12 prior to the attachment of the base member 12 to the barbell 8. However, it is appreciated that the mounting of the arms 14, 16 can occur after the base member 12 has been connected to the barbell 8 but before the sheath 18 is subsequently connected to the base member 12.

When applied to a barbell 8, the sheath 18 first slides over the end of the barbell 8 because, given the configuration of the attachment mechanism 10 described above, both diameters D1, D2 are larger than the diameter of the barbell 8. The sheath 18 is slid down the barbell 8 and placed temporarily out of the way. The hole 22 of the receiving end 20 of the base member 12 is then placed on the end of the barbell 8, and pins 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D are then screwed or pressed into apertures 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D in order to contact the barbell 8 and secure the receiving end 20 about the barbell 8. This step is omitted when the hole 22 connects to the barbell 8 via a friction fit. The opening arm 16 is then moved to an open position so as to permit a weight to be received in the cooperating spaces 54, 84. To help with this movement, edges 58, 88 can be used. Specifically, a force can be applied to edge 88 to push the body portion 80 of the opening arm 16 away from the body portion 50 of the fixed arm 14. Edge 58 can be ergonomically shaped to help a user hold the attachment mechanism 10 when the opening arm 16 is moved. When the weight is received within the spaces 54, 84, the opening arm 16 is then closed. The sheath 18 can then slide back up the barbell 8 and over the receiving end 20 of the base member 12. The sheath 18 is then screwed to the base member 12, with the threaded portion 108 of the inner surface 102 engaging with the threaded portion 37 of the base member 12. A user can now use the barbell 8 with the weight 112, 114 to exercise.

As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the weight may be a standard dumbbell 112. A user can repeatedly disengage the sheath 18 and move the opening arm 16 to replace the dumbbell 112 with different dumbbells having different weight resistances for exercise purposes. As shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the weight is a fitness ball 114 having a central handle (not numbered) onto which the attachment mechanism 10 can grasp. Examples of fitness balls are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019/0269981, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In FIGS. 12B and 13B, opposing ends of the same barbell 8 are each engaged with one attachment mechanism 10 disclosed herein. This allows a user to perform typical barbell exercises such as a bench press, squat, shoulder press, deadlift, etc. with common dumbbells. Large, plated weights are not needed when the attachment mechanism 10 is applied to the barbell 8.

FIG. 14 shows a barbell 8 in two handle parts 8A, 8B. The parts 8A 8B can screw or otherwise connect to form one barbell 8 that can be used as shown in FIG. 12B. However, this embodiment allows a user to use only a single one of the handle parts 8A, 8B to take advantage of only one weight attachment mechanism 10 and one dumbbell 112, allowing a user to perform a wide variety of exercises not possible with a standard barbell 8.

While various aspects of the weight attachment mechanisms 10 were provided in the foregoing description, those skilled in the art may make modifications and alterations to these aspects without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. For example, it is to be understood that this disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any aspect can be combined with one or more features of any other aspect. Accordingly, the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive. The invention described hereinabove is defined by the appended claims, and all changes to the invention that fall within the meaning and the range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A weight attachment mechanism for a barbell, the attachment mechanism comprising: a base comprising a receiving end and a mounting end; a fixed arm; an opening arm; and a sheath having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the fixed arm and the opening arm are configured to be mounted to the mounting end of the base, wherein the opening arm is movable relative to the fixed arm in order to receive a weight between the fixed arm and the opening arm, wherein the inner surface of the sheath is configured to fittingly engage at least a portion of the base, and wherein the receiving end of the base is configured to attach to an end of the barbell.
 2. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 1, wherein the fixed arm and the opening arm each comprise a body portion and a mounting portion extending from the body portion in the direction of the base, wherein the body portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm define a first space configured to receive the weight therein, and wherein the mounting portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm are configured to be mounted to the mounting end of the base.
 3. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 2, wherein the mounting end comprises a first tab and a second tab defining a second space therebetween, and wherein the second space is configured to receive the mounting portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm therein.
 4. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 3, wherein the first tab and the second tab each have a pair of apertures, the pair of apertures on the first tab corresponding with the pair of apertures on the second tab.
 5. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 4, wherein the mounting portions of the opening arm and the fixed arm each comprise an aperture, each aperture aligning with one of the apertures of both the first and second tabs.
 6. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 5, wherein pins extend through each of the aligned apertures, fastening the opening arm and the fixed arm to the mounting end of the base.
 7. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 2, wherein an outer surface of the mounting portion of the opening arm is rounded so as to permit the rotation of the opening arm relative to the fixed arm.
 8. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 2, wherein the mounting portion of the opening arm extends a first length from the body portion of the opening arm and the mounting portion of the fixed arm extends a second length from the body portion of the fixed arm, and wherein the second length is longer than the first length.
 9. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 8, wherein the mounting end of the base comprises a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the mounting portion of the fixed arm therein.
 10. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 1, wherein the base further comprises a threaded portion between the receiving end and the mounting end.
 11. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 10, wherein at least a portion of the inner surface of the sheath is threaded, corresponding to the first threaded portion of the base.
 12. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 1, wherein the weight is a dumbbell.
 13. The weight attachment mechanism of claim 1, wherein the weight is a fitness ball.
 14. A weightlifting assembly comprising: a first bar having a first end and a second end and a second bar having a first end and a second end; and at least one weight attachment mechanism comprising: an attachment portion having a connecting end and a weighted end; and a locking sheath, wherein the connecting end of the attachment portion is configured to be mounted to the first end of the first bar or the first end of the second bar, wherein the weighted end is configured to receive a weight therein, wherein the locking sheath is configured to lock the weight within at least a portion of the weighted end, and wherein the second end of the first bar and the second end of the second bar are configured to be attached to one another.
 15. The weightlifting assembly of claim 14, wherein the weighted end comprises a fixed arm and an opening arm movable relative to the fixed arm in order to receive the weight therebetween.
 16. The weightlifting assembly of claim 15, wherein the locking sheath is configured to be rotatably mounted to the attachment portion so as to cover at least a portion of the fixed arm and the opening arm so as to prevent the opening arm from moving.
 17. The weightlifting assembly of claim 15, wherein the at least one weight attachment mechanism further comprises a pair of locking pins configured to be received through at least a pair of corresponding apertures located on the attachment portions of the fixed arm and the opening arm.
 18. The weightlifting assembly of claim 15, wherein a surface of the opening arm is rounded so as to permit the opening arm to rotate relative to the fixed arm.
 19. The weightlifting assembly of claim 14, wherein the weight is a dumbbell.
 20. The weightlifting assembly of claim 14, wherein the weight is a fitness ball. 